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Octopus closures
In July 2023, Munje BMU demarcated 0.4 km² (1% of total fishing areas) of Kibuyuni fishing ground within their co-management area as an octopus closure site to strengthen and protect community-led management areas.
Over the last 15 months, Munje BMU conducted three successful closing and opening events, with the first opening in November 2023, the second in April 2024, and the third in August 2024. This initiative generated income for fishermen and other BMU members through octopus catch sales and eco-tourism, serving as incentives for conservation.
Following the catch trends and income generated during the three closure openings, the second and third openings saw a decline in catches compared to the first opening. This decline is attributed to climate change and unfavorable weather conditions, including heavy rains on harvesting days.
Closure contribution to ecosystem health
Ecological survey data collected shows improved ecological health in the closure area. This is evidenced by the increased presence of indicator species and an improvement of benthic conditions, with an increase in coral coverage and a decrease in algal cover.
During the 3rd opening event, 30 women from Mkwiro BMU visited and trained 17 women from Munje on octopus gleaning. Women's engagement in octopus gleaning will help to increase their income and break down cultural beliefs that prevent women from participating in fishing activities. Women are also involved in closure management through surveillance and data collection.
Representatives from Kilifi and other Kwale BMUs also attended openings this encourages sharing of ideas and lessons that can be replicated in other areas.
In addition, a patrol boat that will support surveillance of the closure was launched by Kwale County Governor, Hon. Achani.
The Impact
Our Impact
- During the 3rd opening event, 30 women from Mkwiro BMU visited and trained 17 women from Munje on octopus gleaning. Women's engagement in octopus gleaning will help to increase their income and break down cultural beliefs that prevent women from participating in fishing activities.
- The launch of Munje BMU patrol boat by Kwale County Governor, Hon. Achani. The boat will support surveillance of the closure.
- 4 youths from Munje BMU were trained in octopus data collection to help catch monitoring during closure opening by the existing BMU data collectors.
- In the year 2024 only 3 cases of poaching within the closure were reported
- 150 out 260 BMU members have renewed their membership
- 53 fishers out of 70 have renewed their fishing license.
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“After awareness sessions on illegal gears, 5 fishermen in Roka eco-credit group have changed from using spear gun to pointed hook stick and handline. They say the change brings peace of mind as you can go fishing without the fear that you will be caught and focused fishing as you concentrate on one type of fishing’’,
“After awareness sessions on illegal gears, 5 fishermen in Roka eco-credit group have changed from using spear gun to pointed hook stick and handline. They say the change brings peace of mind as you can go fishing without the fear that you will be caught and focused fishing as you concentrate on one type of fishing’’,
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